The Don the Beachcomber Zombie is a legendary Tiki cocktail that has captivated the hearts and taste buds of rum enthusiasts for nearly a century. Created by the renowned Donn Beach, also known as Ernest Gantt, at his Hollywood restaurant in 1934, this potent and mysterious concoction has become an iconic drink in the Tiki culture.
The Original 1934 Recipe
The original Don the Beachcomber’s Zombie Punch recipe is a complex blend of various rums, liqueurs, and fruit juices. To make this classic cocktail, you’ll need:
- 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
- 1/2 ounce falernum
- 1 1/2 ounces each gold Puerto Rican rum and gold or dark Jamaican rum
- 1 ounce Hamilton 151° Overproof Demerara Rum or Lemon Hart 151° Overproof Demerara Rum
- 1 teaspoon grenadine
- 6 drops Pernod
- A dash of Angostura bitters
- 1/2 ounce Don’s mix (2 parts grapefruit juice to 1 part cinnamon-infused sugar syrup)
An alternate version of the recipe calls for using a single rum, the Hamilton Beachbum Berry’s Zombie Rum Blend, instead of the three different rums mentioned above.
The Secret of Don’s Mix
One of the key ingredients in the Zombie is Don’s Mix, a combination of two parts grapefruit juice and one part cinnamon simple syrup. This unique blend adds a distinct flavor profile to the cocktail, setting it apart from other Tiki drinks.
The Zombie’s Allure and Mythos
The Zombie cocktail is famous for its high alcohol content and smooth, fruity taste that masks its potency. Its popularity during the Tiki craze, combined with Beach’s secrecy surrounding the recipe and his occasional alterations, led to numerous variations of the Zombie being served at other establishments. However, many of these variations taste nothing like the original cocktail.
Uncovering the Original Recipe
Tiki drink enthusiasts, such as Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, have dedicated years to researching and decoding the original Zombie recipe. Through extensive investigations and interviews with former Zombie slingers, Berry and others have managed to uncover the authentic recipe, allowing modern-day mixologists and Tiki aficionados to experience the true essence of this classic cocktail.
A Lasting Legacy
The Don the Beachcomber Zombie has left an indelible mark on the world of mixology. Its rich history, complex recipe, and enduring allure have solidified its status as a true classic in the realm of Tiki cocktails. Whether you’re a seasoned rum connoisseur or a curious imbiber, the Zombie is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the fascinating world of Tiki culture and its iconic libations.
